Becoming a network architect is challenging—it demands hands-on engineering skills, encompassing hardware installation, configuration, and fabric layout design. Equally crucial, it involves collaboration with internal teams and C-Suite stakeholders, and adeptly managing external entities like vendors and service providers. The Network Architect's Handbook comprehensively covers these vital aspects, guiding you to evolve into an effective network architect within an organization, fostering seamless communication with leadership teams and other stakeholders. Starting with a clear definition of a network architect’s role, this book lays out a roadmap and delves into the attributes and mindset for success. You’ll then explore network architect design, physical infrastructure routing and switching, and network services such as DNS, MLAG, and service insertion. As you progress, you’ll gain insights into the necessary skills and typical daily challenges faced by network architects. And to thoroughly prepare you to advance in your career, this handbook covers certifications and associated training for maintaining relevance in an organization, along with common interview questions for a network architect's position. Armed with essential concepts, techniques, and your newfound skills, you’ll be well-prepared to pursue a career as a network architect.